FLORENCE, Ala. – The Department of Entertainment Industry at the University of North Alabama will debut its performance venue, The Mane Room, at its new downtown facility with a ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony Friday at 3 p.m. The Mane Room is part of the entertainment industry department’s new classroom, studio and performance facility on Tombigbee Street. The grand opening ceremony is an invitation-only event.

A grand opening show will take place Friday at 7:30 p.m. Entertainment will be provided by local music artists The Decoys with opening act Rhyal Knight. Admission to the show is free and open to the public.

According to Dr. Robert Garfrerick, chair of the Department of Entertainment Industry, the 9,000-square-foot facility has been under renovation since June 1 to revamp the building into a space that can accommodate the needs of the entertainment industry faculty and students. They began using its classrooms and offices this fall. The Mane Room is a 450-capacity performance area fully equipped with audio and stage lighting capabilities.

“I look forward to having some shows there and bringing good entertainment to town,” Garfrerick said. “This venue has enormous potential for the community and for our students.”

For more information, contact the Department of Entertainment Industry at 256-765-4342.